Vodacom Deploys World's First Integrated Passive-Active MIMO Solution

Vodacom South Africa is deploying the world's first integrated passive-active Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) solution to expand its 4G and 5G network capacity. Developed in partnership with Nokia, the technology was first successfully piloted in the Western Cape.

The solution utilizes a compact antenna configuration that supports dual-band Massive MIMO across the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz spectrum bands. This design allows the company to increase network efficiency and capacity at sites where physical or structural constraints make conventional expansion difficult. Vodacom expects the rollout to improve download speeds and streaming performance, particularly in high-demand urban areas.

Following the pilot, the company is identifying additional sites across its existing network for deployment. Technology Director Beverly Ngwenya stated that the investment is intended to ensure the network is ready to support changing connectivity needs and deliver the consistency of experience customers expect.